HealthSheets™

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Alcoholism: Getting Help

Facing a problem with alcohol can be hard. Once a person decides to get help, it can be found in many places. Below you will find resources that can give you more information. They can also help you find treatment.

Primary care

Speak with your primary healthcare provider. Sometimes your provider can provide medicine to help you stop drinking. If not, he or she can refer you to a specialist.

Professional care

This kind of care can be inpatient. It means you spend a period of time in a facility. Or it can be outpatient. This means you come and go. The facilities have medical support and can help a person detox. Most health insurance plans will cover at least some treatment. To find this kind of care, talk to your healthcare provider or a counselor. Or go to a mental health clinic and ask for information. You can also go online to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) helps members get sober and stay sober. They help you build healthy patterns of living. Everyone is welcome at an AA meeting. You don't have to identify yourself. Some people find it easier to go to the first meeting with a friend. To find a meeting near you, contact Alcoholics Anonymous online at www.aa.org.

The road to recovery

Many people with alcoholism can give up alcohol for good. But change may not be easy or quick. Treatment is only a start. Relapses can be common. A relapse is not a sign of failure. Instead, it means treatment should continue. Once a person stops drinking, support is needed for them to stay sober. After care programs and groups, such as AA, are good for this kind of support.

Helpful websites

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Addictionwww.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD) www.ncadd.org